**First Time At Auction**

North Pacific, Hawaiian Islands, ca. 19th century CE. A beautiful and sizable serving vessel hand-carved from richly-grained kou wood known as an umeke (also umeke la'au pakaka) - a bowl used by high-status individuals (known as kanaka) for consuming poi. The grand vessel exhibits a high luster which accentuates its warm and inviting colors; note the warm glow of the natural woodgrain boasting swirling hues of chocolate, espresso, and mocha that dance across the vessel, nicely complementing its elegant form. Kou wood was favored by the kanaka as it did not impart a bitter aftertaste to their poi like other wood species were known to do. Some elites favored certain bowls so much that - rather than discard a damaged vessel - they would repair any breaks with butterfly dowels like those seen on the side of this example. Size: 12.3" Diameter x 5.6" H (31.2 cm x 14.2 cm)

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Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#177495

Old repairs using 2 wooden butterfly dowels and slender wooden strips visible on one side of exterior as indicated in description. Minor abrasions and nicks across exterior, with stable hairline fissures along interior commensurate with age, darkening and minor chipping to basin surfaces, otherwise in great condition. Wonderful luster and patina throughout. Handwritten inventory label and handwritten inventory number on base.